What are the best ways to use a dumpster or roll off container?

Different people have different uses for dumpsters, but there are primarily two use cases: construction projects and large clean outs/demolition clean ups. For example:

commercial construction projects

siding replacement

window replacement

roof tear offs for roofing projects

kitchen remodeling projects

bath remodeling projects

cleaning out a house prior to a sales listing

yard junk removal

basement, garage, or attic clean outs

large spring cleaning projects

light demolition projects

much more

What are the common dumpster sizes and which size should I rent?

The number of cubic yards a dumpster will hold is how these containers are measured. For example, a 10 yard dumpster will hold 10 yards of waste material. The most common dumpster sizes are 10 yards, 20 yards, 30 yards, and 40 yards.

Correctly estimating the amount of waste removal a project will generate is difficult if you don't have a lot of experience with dumpsters. For that reason, it's usually best to give us a ring so we can discuss your project and we will suggest the best size dumpster for your project. For more information on dumpster rental sizes, we've setup a resource page for you.

What are the factors that will impact how much it will cost to rent a dumpster?

There are three main actors that will have the biggest impact on the cost of renting a dumpster. The first is where you are located. The second and third factors go hand in hand, they are the amount of waste debris you need to have removed and the type of waste material. Your location is a significant factor because each landfill and city municipality will have different taxes and fees associated with disposing of the waste material. The differences in fees can vary widely from city to city, and can range from 300-400%!

The type and amount of waste material you will be disposing of will have a significant impact on the final cost of your dumpster. In a nutshell, the more waste you have and the heavier it is the more it's going to cost.

How are dumpster rentals typically quoted?

Flat fee for specific sized containers, specific number of days, and a weight limit is the most common way dumpster rental companies charge. For example, you may get a quote of $450 for a 30 yard dumpster, for 7 days, with a weight limit not to exceed 3 tons.

However, be aware that some dumpster rental companies may have additional fees for delivery, fuel charges, landfill charges, etc. For this reason, make sure to get a quote that will include all of those additional charges as well as to avoid any surprise hidden fees down the line.

One thing to note, however, is even with flat fee pricing extra fees may apply in certain cases. If you need the dumpster longer than the scheduled rental period, there is usually a daily overage fee for extending the rental period. This fee is typically between $5-$15 per day.

Another factor that may incur extra fees is weight overages. Each dumpster is weighed at the landfill or transfer station. If the dumpster's weight exceeds the agreed upon weight limit, there will be an additional weight fee applied. This fee typically ranges from $35 to $120 per ton of overage, depending on the landfill fees and taxes.

Even with flat fee pricing extra charges may apply if you need to dumpster longer then the scheduled rental period. There is usually a daily fee for extending the rental period that is typically between $3 and $10 per day.

Alright, I need to rent a dumpster. What steps should I take?

Renting a dumpster should be simple and straight forward if you're dealing with a reputable and experienced dumpster rental company that's committed to providing straight forward pricing and award winning level of customer support. To ensure the best rental experience possible, here are 4 steps that will help:

Think about the amount of waste material you need to dispose of, if you are unsure, be prepared to describe your project to the dumpster rental companies you speak with so they can assist you in picking the right sized roll off dumpster.

Contact one or more dumpster rental companies to inquire about pricing and availability. Be sure to confirm that the quoted rate is all inclusive for the stated time period, dumpster size, and weight limit.

Schedule a delivery date and provide any specific details about where you would like to have the dumpster placed on site. If you will need the canister during a busy time, like spring, it is best to schedule as far in advance as possible.

When you're done filling the dumpster, call the dumpster company and let them know you are ready for pick up. They should pick up the roll off canister within 24 hours and take it to the landfill or transfer station.